A Easy Maglite Conversion

Flashlight Modding and DIY Parts
1

I recently bought on line a NOS classic 3C Maglite incandescent flash light and installed a inexpensive 3 to 6 alkaline battery compatible 2 mode LED conversion in it for testing. I checked and three C size NIMH or alkaline batteries are almost the same length as two 21700 button top protected lithium ion batteries such as Xtar or Nitecore, within 2 mm. Being button tops a simple tubular C to 21700 spacer adapter without a end piece works to adapt the 21700 batteries to the C battery light. I have a lathe so made up an adapter this afternoon from 1" diameter Delrin. Working great and no tail spring change is needed. A easy and relatively low cost conversion that should work with almost any of the many LED conversion modules that are available for older incandescent Maglites.

Below is the link to the LED module I used, distributed by LiteExpress of Germany.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L2JZM1F?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

1 Thank
2

Make sure to use protected cells when sticking any in series, though.

3

I think that I noted using protected cells in my description.

4

Aha, had to go reread it. Yeah, was right at a line-wrap so I missed it.

5

For those without a lathe below is a link to some appropriate size plastic tubing that should make up appropriate size 21700 to C cell spacers by simply cutting off the length needed.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BMYNX8B4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

And here is an ebay source for a number of battery adapters and related items.